(Alm et al., 1998). The benefits of working in virtual reality for persons on the Autism Spectrum have been documented extensively (Biever, 2007). People with autism spectrum disorders often find virtual world communication more comfortable than in real life.
Communicating in a virtual environment slows social interactions down and gives people with autism better control. Many people with autism, who are unable to interact with others in real life, feel comfortable communicating through their avatar. Observing avatar gestures and experimenting with using them in in-world communication improves the ability of people with autism to interpret facial expressions and body language.
Communication with clinical psychologists could be facilitated in a virtual world setting, and group interaction and cohesiveness could also be positively influenced during therapy (Gorini et al, 2008). Lung cancer patients can be coached to use more assertive communication during virtual clinic visits (Brown-Johnson et al., 2015). Balandin (2011) discusses the use of virtual worlds to support persons with complex communication needs as they participate in communities.
Virtual therapy can aid in improvement of cognitive functioning. The realistic scenes and personal interactions capture the interest and channel the attention of persons with ADHD (Alm, 1998). Virtual reality can assist people with cognitive impairments (Darrow, 1995). Exercising in a virtual reality environment can lead to significant gains in cognitive function during rehabilitation from traumatic brain injury (Grealy et al., 1999).
Virtual therapy can also help patients improve motor skills. The realistic graphical interface allows mobility through the landscape with minimal physical effort. Navigating a three-dimensional Virtual Reality landscape improves spatial awareness. Warner’s research (1995) showed that eye/hand coordination and fine motor skills can be developed with the patient using very little strength.
Mao et al. (2014) report improved balance in patients given virtual reality training. Participation in a virtual reality balance exercise program improved balance confidence and function by adults with moderate or severe traumatic brain injury (Thornton et al., 2005). These adults and their caregivers also showed substantially greater enthusiasm and knowledge compared to a control group participating in an activity-based program.
Virtual reality therapy with monitoring of hand movements has been used with stroke patients (Burdea, 2002). Gatica-Rojas and Mendez-Rebolledo (2014) envision virtual reality devices used in physical rehabilitation therapy for patients with neurological disorders who need motor training.